All I Really Need to Know about Math I Learned in Kindergarten

You’ve probably never heard of this Mathematics education has a secret weapon.

As a High School Department Chair on a mission to provide access to all math learners, I was introduced to Number Talks by my son’s elementary teacher. My son (who has special needs) sat on the carpet with his peers in math class. He was not at grade level with his math facts and he struggled with fine motor skills of writing numbers and letters. Still, he participated in the class’ daily routine of Number Talks. His voice and ideas were heard and valued. He contributed to the class learning and was a respected member of the class.

My first thought was, “We need this in High School.” And my journey began.

This Mathematics secret weapon transforms how students think about numbers.

What Are Number Talks?

Number Talks are mental math routines that provide insight into the minds of your students as they describe, decipher and defend ideas around a single prompt using only their prior knowledge and personal background.

Number Talks  allow students to grapple with number relationships in a way that goes beyond traditional paper and pencil work. Unlike standard mathematical instruction, Number Talks create mental space for thinking and reasoning. They provide a unique opportunity for students to:

  • Share their mathematical thinking

  • Develop number sense

  • Build mathematical vocabulary

  • Feel included in the learning process

What makes Number Talks truly remarkable is their versatility. In early grades, they help students build foundational number sense and strategies. In high school, they become a tool for:

  • Filling learning gaps

  • Addressing misconceptions

  • Exploring complex mathematical concepts

  • Building mathematical confidence

My 12 year journey learning and sharing Number Talks for Middle and High School students has me convinced that this routine has a place in every single math classroom from 6th grade through Calculus. Some resources to get you started can be found on my website here.

Anvesh .